Hybrid generators are increasing in popularity as a sustainable alternative to traditional diesel generators. A hybrid generator is a combination of a traditional diesel generator and lithium battery technology. It switches between or combines these power generation sources. The lithium battery can be charged by solar panels.
Energy-efficient power solutions are crucial in the contemporary industrial and business landscape. If you are a business owner or facility manager in remote, off-grid or large industries like mining, agriculture or construction, then it is important to evaluate all your reliable power solution options.
The article provides:
- A cost-benefit analysis of hybrid vs diesel generators.
- An analysis of the potential return on investment (ROI) of switching to a hybrid power solution, including an analysis of initial investment costs and potential long-term savings.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
The cost-benefit of hybrid generators reveals some interesting insights:
Initial Investment Costs
Hybrid generators have higher upfront costs than diesel generators, including technology and installation fees.
The total cost of a hybrid generator investment that includes installation depends on a range of factors, including its power generation capacity, engine specifications and manufacturer, as well as the complexity of the installation.
Long-Term Savings
High-quality hybrid power generators require minimal maintenance because they usually have less engine wear and tear over time than diesel generators.
Hybrid generators also have significantly less fuel consumption than traditional diesel generators because they combine diesel fuel with renewable energy.
Both characteristics of hybrid generators can lead to long-term cost savings that more than offset their higher initial upfront investment cost.
Energy Efficiency
Hybrid generators are more energy-efficient than traditional generators because they produce less carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and less noise emissions, making them an environmentally friendly power generation source.
Potential Return on Investment (ROI)
Hybrid generators ROI depend on a range of factors beyond the initial purchase and installation cost, including:
Fuel Savings
The fuel savings over the lifespan of a hybrid generator can be significant. These savings depend on a range of factors, including the lifespan of the generator (as different models have different estimated lifespans), as well as the capacity of the generator, weather conditions, how often it is used and how often each of its power generation sources is used (for example, diesel generation versus use versus generation).
One recent global study found a 32% fuel cost saving over the lifespan of a hybrid generator, which meant that the initial purchase and installation cost was recouped in just over a year.
Environmental Incentives
It’s no secret that both the federal government in Australia and governments around the world are providing a range of financial incentives for businesses in Australia to adopt greener technologies, including small-scale renewable energy systems and small-scale technology certificates.
These incentives are designed to speed up our transition to renewable energy sources and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
Maintenance and Downtime
The ROI on hybrid generators should also be enhanced by their reduced likelihood of downtime for maintenance issues and associated costs. They have less reliance on diesel components than diesel generators, therefore you can expect reduced maintenance and downtime and an enhanced ROI over time as a result.
Business Case for Hybrid Generators
The use of hybrid generators has proven to be beneficial in a diverse range of industries across Australia, including the mining, oil and gas, civil and construction, emergency services, healthcare and agriculture industries. Many of these industries require continuous power to sustain their operations 24/7, 365 days a year, often in remote locations.
Hybrid generator uses can include:
- Continuous power generation
- Being a backup power source
- Being a supplemental power source during peak usage times.
It is important to understand that the performance of hybrid generators and diesel generators differs significantly during extreme weather conditions or in remote Australian locations.
Diesel generators are generally more reliable and robust in these situations than hybrid generators. They can operate in extreme temperatures (whether hot or cold), making them a common choice in areas where there are harsh climates, like many remote parts of Australia.
However, their reliance on fuel deliveries can be a disadvantage in remote locations if access is ever limited due to extreme weather events such as floods or cyclones. This can lead to power disruptions.
Hybrid generators are less fuel dependent due to the solar panels that are integrated into them. Hybrid systems can generate power during daylight hours, reducing the need for the diesel engine (and therefore fuel) to be used.
However, it’s also important to understand that hybrid generator’s reliance on renewable energy sources (such as the sun or wind) can also make them vulnerable to unfavourable weather conditions, such as a prolonged period of wet or overcast days.
Long-Term Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Hybrid generators contribute to reducing the carbon footprints of businesses and the industries in which they operate. In one recent global study, the use of a hybrid generator in a remote location resulted in carbon emissions that were 37.3 tonnes less than those produced by a diesel generator operating at the same capacity.
The use of hybrid generators also promotes corporate social responsibility which is important for developing positive relationships at all levels, from consumers through to the general public, supply chain partners and governments.
At PR Power, we are committed to promoting environmentally responsible equipment, processes and partnerships. We continually strive to reduce our own environmental impact while providing our customers with power generation solutions that will help them reduce their carbon footprint.
How We Can Help
If you are looking for a hybrid generator, check out our solar hybrid generators at PR Power.
Contact us to find out more about how you can use hybrid technology to generate long-term savings. We have offices in Western Australia, Queensland and Victoria.
Our specialist team will take the time to understand your specific needs and can provide you with professional advice and a no-obligation quote for a tailored power solution. We would also be happy to answer any questions you may have.
We also stock a range of other net zero equipment and technology, including solar lighting towers, hybrid lighting towers and battery packs.
